Insights

20 Essential Job Interview Tips

Job interviews are a part of life. You go to school to learn how to be a productive member of society by learning a skill or trade for a life time of work, and the only way you’re going to be able to get those future jobs is by acing yet another test. The job interview.

So how do you ace this test? There are plenty of ways to make sure you pass an interview with flying colors. The first is your ability to do the job. So before taking these 20 essential tips into consideration, understand if you are capable for the position you’ve applied for. Never interview for a job you are not 100% sure you can do well!

1) Do your homework

Research the company as well as your interviewer. You would never take a test without knowing how to answer the questions and an interview is no different.

2) Look professional

The way you present yourself speaks volumes to a manager. If you look sloppy, your work is sloppy. Dress to impress with appropriate attire.

3) Body language

Another telltale attribute to a manager is your body language. Simply sitting up straight, looking at who is speaking to you and keeping still makes a huge difference in your appearance.

4) Practice make perfect

Work with a recruiter or a friend on answering questions because you don’t want to stumble when the interview finally comes.

5) Be on time!

In fact, don’t be on time, be early! This is a huge indication on what you will be like as an employee.

6) Get some sleep

A good night’s sleep makes a world of difference the next day. A well-rested mind helps make you feel confident.

7) Social Media

Yes, you may look adorable in that selfie but your future employer is going to look you up online and see that dress you wore last night. Clean up all social media or deactivate it so they can’t see last night’s mistake.

8) Personality is key.

You were able to land an interview based off of your resume so now they want to see if your personality is a fit too. Don’t be afraid to show off some of who you are during the interview.

9) Every question is potentially a test

Some interviewers make you feel relaxed, which makes you less professional. Don’t fall for that trick! You can be relaxed too but always stay sharp and ready to answer hard-hitting questions.

10) Be confident

Never under estimate how valuable you are. Be confident in your work, personality, and your skills.

11) Always listen

Listening is the key to life. If you listen properly, you answer properly.

12) Write things down

When you’re listening, write it down. You may have a question about it later or it may be important for you to know.

13) Bring a notebook, your resume, and a pen

In order to write it down, you need to bring the tools. They won’t provide it and they may not have your resume either, so print several copies just in case.

14) Attitude – Smiling is important

Smile and show your teeth. If you act happy, you’ll be happy, and they will like your positive attitude.

15) Posture is important

Sitting up straight and planting your feet gives you confidence without you even knowing it

16) The handshake

A strong, but not too strong handshake is a power move. Take control and give a firm handshake when you meet a manager and when you leave the interview.

17) Answering the interview questions

Some questions may take time for you to answer properly, don’t be afraid to ask for a moment to ensure you have an accurate answer.

18) Give specific examples

Your answers should relate to your work so be specific and knowledgeable about what you’ve done.

19) Share your ideas

You’ve done your research so let them know your thoughts on the position you would be doing and how you would improve it.

20) Follow up

Follow up with a thank you email. If you know a time frame as to when they will get back to you, follow up again if it’s taking a little longer to let them know you are still interested.